India's total count of coronavirus cases crosses 50,000-mark

New Delhi : The nationwide tally of confirmed cases touched the 50,000-mark on Wednesday with large number of healthcare and security professionals getting infected with the contagious virus. High fatality rates were also reported in states like West Bengal, Gujarat and Maharashtra.

While Kerala reported no new case of coronavirus, Maharashtra added 1,200 new cases on Wednesday, taking its tally above 10,000-mark.

The negative effect of coronavirus pandemic can also be seen on the economic activities, the Centre has announced a price hike in petrol and diesel prices. Looking up to make some money, several states have imposed a unique corona tax on liquor sales.

Industries across the country were also scared on opening their plants with the fact that amid lockdown it becomes difficult for the staff to move around the places.

While announcing the third phase of the lockdown till May 17, the government had given several relaxations for getting industrial and agricultural activities restarted, but not much have changed on the ground with only a few companies, especially in the manufacturing sector, resuming their operations in a limited way.

India's biggest carmaker company recently announced that it will resume its operations in Haryana only after May 12.

A PTI tally of figures reported by different states and union territories till 9 PM put the total number of confirmed cases at 51,435 and the death toll at 1,694.